Langimage
English

ancile

|an-ci-le|

C2

🇺🇸

/ænˈsaɪli/

🇬🇧

/ænˈsiːleɪ/

sacred Roman shield

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ancile' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ancile', where it referred to a sacred shield.

Historical Evolution

'ancile' was borrowed directly from Latin into English, retaining its original form and meaning.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a sacred shield' in Roman religion, and this meaning has remained unchanged in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a sacred shield, especially the legendary shield of the Roman god Mars, believed to have fallen from heaven and preserved as a symbol of Rome's security.

The ancile was kept by the priests as a symbol of Rome's protection.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/08/02 06:12